Gillnets are the dominant gear used by fisheries in the Indian Ocean, mainly in artisanal and semi-industrial fisheries.

KEY STATISTICS

Between 30% and 40% – Percentage of catch attributed to gillnets in the Indian Ocean, according to the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) database

BYCATCH

While data analysis has proved difficult, a recent study found that bycatch from gillnet fishing is high across all species groups. Sharks were especially vulnerable, with gillnets accounting for 64 percent of shark catches recorded by the IOTC. Research also indicates that turtle mortality is high because of gillnets operating in the Indian Ocean.

FUEL EFFICIENCY

There is not enough reliable data available to estimate the fuel use of gillnet fishing.